§ 8. Mr. LEONARDasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that, owing to the methods of marketing, stock-owners in Scotland are faced with charges which amount on an average to 5s. for a sheep, 10s. for a pig and 40s. for an ox; and if he will consider finding ways and means by which these charges can be reduced?
§ Sir G. COLLINSI am aware that the existing system of marketing live stock is regarded in many quarters as unduly expensive, but I must not be taken as accepting without question all the figures mentioned by the hon. Member. A scheme regulating the marketing of pigs for the manufacture of bacon is in force throughout Great Britain, and the Scottish Reorganisation Commission is preparing a scheme for regulating the sale of fat cattle and sheep in Scotland. The report of that commission will doubtless deal with methods and costs of marketing.
§ Mr. LEONARDWill the right hon. Gentleman take speedy action in this matter if I present to him figures substantiating the figures in the question?
§ Sir G. COLLINSI shall be very happy to receive the figures referred to.